Celebrating Community and Inclusion: Meeting with Filipino Leaders in Canmore

Yesterday, I had the privilege of meeting with Filipino community leaders in Canmore. Our discussion touched on pressing issues affecting our town - from affordable housing to tourism and what these challenges mean for immigrants and ethnocultural communities.

The Filipino community has long been a cornerstone of Canmore, with many families calling this town home since the 1980s. Many Filipinos work as frontline workers, while others own local businesses, contributing significantly to both our local economy and community. Their contributions should not go unnoticed, and it is vital that ethnocultural communities, including the Filipino community, are included in decision-making processes that shape the future of our town.

One recurring topic in our conversation was the lack of public indoor spaces for cultural and community celebrations. Many cultural groups must source food outside of Canmore, as there is currently no facility where meals can be prepared for events. Community events often rely on the generosity of local church establishments, which puts pressure on their limited infrastructure. Everyone in our community should have a space to gather, cook, and share meals together, a place that fosters belonging, connection, and the celebration of traditions.

If elected, I will strongly advocate for much needed indoor community space with kitchen space where members of all cultural groups can prepare and share food. These spaces not only allow people to cook and enjoy meals together but also demonstrate that the governing bodies value inclusion and equity, creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and respected.

While the kitchen space was a key topic, we had many other important discussions about the future of Canmore and the role of our community in shaping it. Thank you to everyone who took the time to meet with me, and to those who wanted to join but couldn’t. Your voices are valued and appreciated.

Celebrating Community and Culture: Volunteering at the Canmore Highland Games

Volunteering at the Canmore Highland Games was an incredible experience that highlighted the power of community, tradition, and teamwork. The Games are more than athletic competitions. They are a celebration of culture, heritage, and the connections that bring people together.

Being part of the volunteer team allowed me to see firsthand how much dedication and effort goes into organizing an event like this. From coordinating schedules to supporting athletes and visitors, every volunteer played a crucial role in ensuring the Games ran smoothly. It was inspiring to work alongside so many passionate people committed to creating a welcoming and memorable experience for everyone.

What stood out most was the sense of connection among volunteers, athletes, and spectators. People from all walks of life came together to celebrate not only Scottish traditions but also the spirit of community that makes Canmore special. Being part of that environment, where everyone cheers for one another and shares in the excitement, was both humbling and rewarding.

Volunteering reminded me how essential these events are to the community and how much they rely on the generosity of people willing to give their time. It was an opportunity to contribute in a small way to something much bigger - helping families, athletes, and visitors enjoy the Games while supporting a tradition that strengthens our community bonds.

Overall, volunteering at the Canmore Highland Games was fun, inspiring, and deeply meaningful. It reinforced the importance of community involvement and the joy that comes from celebrating culture and heritage together. I look forward to future opportunities to support events that bring people together and make our community stronger.

🇺🇦 Celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day in Canmore

It was an honour to be part of the Ukrainian Independence Day Festival in Canmore, a celebration that brought together local residents and newly arrived Ukrainian community members. Events like this are about more than festivities—they are an opportunity for our community to show solidarity, support, and welcome to those who have faced immense struggles in recent years.

The strength and resilience of the Ukrainian community are truly inspiring. Despite challenges, they come together, celebrate their culture, and support one another no matter where in the world they are. Their courage and determination serve as a reminder of the power of community, connection, and perseverance.

As a community, we are stronger when we support each other, especially during difficult times. Being part of this festival reaffirmed the importance of standing with one another, of showing up, and of creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and valued.

Canmore is richer when we come together to celebrate diversity, lift each other up, and honour the resilience of all members of our community. The Ukrainian community has shown remarkable strength, and we are committed to continuing to support them as neighbours, friends, and fellow community members.

Dyakuyu - Thank you!

The power of supportive community.

Today I was reminded once again just how supportive my community is.
As I sat at the anti-racism event in Canmore, I looked around the room and felt deeply moved. So many people made the effort to show up, to listen, to learn, and to reflect on how we can build a more inclusive and just community. It takes courage to be vulnerable. And while the impact of that vulnerability isn’t always measurable, it’s deeply felt.

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to be a person of colour running for council, and the barriers that come with that, especially in a place like Canmore. I’ve also been reflecting on the other ways I differ from many of my peers: my background, my lived experience, and my journey as an immigrant. But today reminded me that I do belong here. That this town is full of people who care about justice, who want to create a better future, and who understand the importance of showing up for one another. That moment gave me hope and strengthened my commitment to keep going. To keep working toward my goal of being a voice for those who too often feel unheard or invisible in our community.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organizers @frankiedsdonuts and supporters of the event, to the brave speakers who shared their stories, and to every person who showed up. Your presence matters. Your care matters.
Like the saying goes: It takes a village to raise a child. And I say it takes people who care and who believe in change to build a community where everyone feels they belong.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t just a housing issue, it’s a justice issue.

After more than a decade of calling Canmore home, I’ve seen just how hard it’s become for working people, especially immigrants to stay here, no matter how much they give to this community. As a renter myself, I’ve lived the challenges of trying to find a safe, affordable place to live in a town where housing costs have outpaced wages for years. Like many others, I’ve had to make difficult choices between stable housing and financial security. And I’ve watched too many friends and neighbours, often immigrants or frontline workers, pushed to the edge or out of town entirely.

Many immigrants come here full of hope, ready to contribute to Canmore’s economy and community, but they quickly discover that despite working two or even three jobs, they still can’t afford a place to call home. Add to that the language barriers, unfamiliar systems, and lack of representation and it becomes incredibly hard to speak up or advocate for change. Let’s be clear: this isn’t just a housing issue, it’s a justice issue.

Tourism may fuel our economy, but it’s immigrants and working-class people who fuel tourism and so much more. If we lose them, we don’t just lose our workforce. We lose our community’s heart. That’s why I support the Town of Canmore's Livability Tax Program. It’s a thoughtful step toward building a fairer Canmore, one where part-time homeowners contribute to solutions for those who live and work here year-round. Housing and immigration go hand in hand. Canmore is more than a destination. It’s home to people who work hard every day to keep it running. Let’s make sure they’re not left behind.

Food, Friendship, and Community

Volunteering with Food & Friends in Canmore has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my time in this valley.

I was first introduced to Food & Friends in 2018 through my work, when I helped the Moroccan community host a Moroccan Cultural Dinner. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to help organize many Cultural Community Meal events, and Food & Friends has been the welcoming host for two of them, the Moroccan Cultural Dinner and a French Cultural Dinner.

It was through these experiences that I came to truly appreciate the heart of this incredible initiative. Food & Friends is more than just a meal it’s a place where people from all walks of life come together to share food, stories, and laughter.

Sometimes I visit just to catch up with old friends and make new ones. Other times, I come to volunteer — to give back to a space that has given me so much, and to continue building a sense of belonging in our community.

Whether you're new to town or have lived here for decades, Food & Friends offers something we all need: connection. Programs like this create something truly special — a feeling of home in the heart of our community. These simple, shared meals make a big difference in people’s lives.

If you haven’t had the chance to attend Food & Friends or a similar gathering in your own community I really encourage you to check it out. Whether you come as a guest or a volunteer, you’ll find something meaningful in the experience. You won’t be disappointed. 💛

In Canmore, Food & Friends runs every Monday (excluding Stat Holidays).
To volunteer or learn more, visit their Facebook page.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who prepares meals and helps create this warm, welcoming space week after week. Your kindness truly nourishes our community.

Volunteering at Food and Friends in Canmore

🇵🇭 Celebrating Filipino Heritage Month in Canmore

Today I had the honour of volunteering at a joyful and heartwarming celebration for Filipino Heritage Month right here in Canmore.

From helping set up the venue alongside other volunteers to reconnecting with familiar faces, it was such a privilege to be part of this vibrant gathering a true reflection of the warmth, generosity, and community spirit that the Filipino community brings to our town.

Over the years, through working with Filipinos overseas, traveling across the Philippines, and living here in Canmore one thing has always stood out to me: Filipinos are among the kindest, most hospitable, and positive people you’ll ever meet. Whether as colleagues, neighbours, or friends, they show up with heart and they make everyone around them feel like part of the family.

Celebrating cultural heritage like this isn’t just about food, music, or dancing, it’s about connection. It’s about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and safe to be themselves. When we take the time to acknowledge and honour one another’s identities, we help build communities that are not only more inclusive, but stronger and safer for everyone.

Diversity is a strength, and when we celebrate it, we create opportunities to learn from one another, challenge stereotypes, and foster understanding. These celebrations remind us that we all belong.

A heartfelt thank you to my friend Emman and the incredible team at the Canmore Filipino Canadian Association. Your pride, dedication, and teamwork brought this event to life, and it was an absolute joy to volunteer alongside you.

Mabuhay! 🇵🇭💛

Honouring National Indigenous Peoples Day: A Personal Reflection

âba wathtech - good day

June 21 marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across what we now call Canada. It’s a time for recognition, reflection, and recommitment to reconciliation.

My personal journey with Indigenous history and culture began back in 2015, when I attended my first Indigenous event. I still remember the pride in the eyes of the young dancers and the generosity of the community who welcomed me. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to attend many more events such as powwows, cross-cultural workshops, and traditional ceremonies where I’ve continued to learn, listen, and reflect. Each experience has left a mark on me. Over the years, I've come to better understand some of the challenges Indigenous peoples face every day, from systemic racism and lack of access to services, to the ongoing impacts of residential schools and loss of language and culture. But I’ve also witnessed the strength, resilience, and beauty that live in Indigenous communities, in their stories, songs, traditions, and activism.

🧡 This year, I had the honour of volunteering at the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration in Canmore. From helping set up the event to meeting artists from across the province and watching incredible dancers share their culture through movement and regalia, the day was filled with connection, learning, and deep respect.

Volunteering at events like this isn’t just something I do, it’s part of my ongoing commitment to be a better ally and community member. These experiences have helped me feel more connected to this land, and have made me even more grateful to call this place home.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is not only a time to celebrate, it’s also a time to recognize our shared responsibilities. As settlers, immigrants, and neighbours, we all have a role in supporting reconciliation and creating safer, more inclusive spaces where Indigenous voices are respected and honoured.

I carry this work with me in everything I do, whether through volunteering, working with immigrants, or simply having conversations that help break down barriers and build understanding.

Let’s keep showing up, keep listening, and keep learning. Not just today, but every day.

With gratitude and respect.

Isniyés - thank you

Clean the Peaks Day

This past weekend, I joined an incredible group of volunteers for the first-ever Clean the Peaks Day, a day focused on making our neighbourhood safer from wildfires while building stronger connections with one another.

Over 20 volunteers came out to help reduce the risk of wildfire in the Peaks of Grassi community. We cleared debris, raked out pine needles, and piled up dead branches doing our part to protect homes and natural spaces we all love. But this day wasn’t just about hauling brush. For us, it was also about what happens when people come together with purpose. Neighbours who had never met before worked side by side. Some folks brought their kids, others shared laughs and stories while loading wheelbarrows and sweeping driveways. I had great conversations with old friends and made a few new ones too. That’s the kind of energy that reminds me why I believe in community-led action.

Thanks to Alpine Precision Tree Services, who generously donated their time and chipping services, and to Azuro Outdoor Design and Construction, who helped with all the debris that couldn’t be chipped. Together, they removed more than 6 tons of material that’s 6 tons of potential wildfire fuel taken out of the community. And volunteers made 17 trips to the Boulder Crescent Recycling Depot to drop off bags of yard waste.

It’s also worth mentioning that residents went above and beyond clearing more than double the amount of material expected. We couldn’t get to every pile in one day, but clean-up will continue this week.

I’m so grateful to live in a place where people care this deeply. Big thanks to Beamer’s Coffee Bar, Famous Chinese Restaurant, Save-On-Foods, FireSmart Canada, and the Town of Canmore for their support.

When we come together like this, it’s not just about fire safety, it’s about building a stronger, more connected Canmore. And that’s the kind of town I want to keep working for.

Spreading Awareness and Standing with the Two-Spirit Community

Yesterday, I had the honour of attending a powerful and thought-provoking Two-Spirit Panel Discussion hosted by Canmore Pride and Mînî Thnî Two-Spirit Pride at artsPlace. The evening was filled with deep reflections, personal stories, and meaningful conversations and I walked away with a stronger understanding of what it means to truly support our Two-Spirit neighbours.

For those who may be unfamiliar, “Two-Spirit” is a sacred term used within many Indigenous communities to describe a person who embodies both masculine and feminine spirits. It is a complex and deeply cultural identity, and it's important that we listen, learn, and respect what it means not just in language, but in action.

During the panel, the speakers shared their lived experiences as Two-Spirit individuals both the beauty of embracing their identity and the difficult challenges they’ve faced. Many spoke about the struggles within their own communities and in broader society, where misunderstanding, discrimination, and isolation are still far too common. What stood out to me most was the repeated message: "At the end of the day, we are all humans."

That simple truth carries so much power. Respect, kindness, and empathy are the building blocks of healthy communities, and it's up to all of us to create safer spaces where people can be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are.

Here are a few key takeaways I’d like to share:

🧡 Education matters. Learning about Two-Spirit history, culture, and identities is essential. It helps break down harmful stereotypes and builds bridges of understanding.

💚 Connection is powerful. Whether it’s through events like these, storytelling, or shared experiences, connection helps Two-Spirit individuals feel less alone and more supported.

💙 Allyship is a verb. It’s not just about words it’s about how we show up, how we speak out, and how we make room for others at the table.

I’m incredibly grateful to the panelists who shared their voices so courageously, and to the Canmore Pride and the Mînî Thnî Two Spirit Pride who created such a welcoming and respectful space. These kinds of conversations matter not just in Pride Month, but all year round.

Let’s continue to listen, learn, and act and make Canmore a place where everyone feels they belong.

With gratitude and solidarity

Becoming a Wildlife Ambassador: Why It Matters to Me

Earlier this month I officially became a Volunteer Wildlife Ambassador through the Bow Valley Wildsmart program! 🫎🌿 This has been a personal goal of mine for the past few years, and I’m incredibly grateful to Nick De Ruyter, Derek Ryder, and Karen from the WildSmart program for their support and encouragement along the way.

Since moving to Canada, I’ve developed a deep passion for learning about wildlife and the environment we share with them. This land gave me hope and a new beginning, and I’ve always felt a strong responsibility to protect and respect it. Becoming a Wildlife Ambassador is more than a title for me — it’s a commitment to supporting coexistence between humans and the wild animals that call this valley home.

Through my work with immigrant communities, I’ve had the chance to create educational experiences about outdoor safety and wildlife awareness. Now, I’m excited to take this even further. In this new role, I’ll be helping to spread important messages about recreating safely, respecting wildlife space, and understanding how our actions impact the natural world around us.

Wildlife need room to roam — and as community members, we all share the responsibility to make sure they can. Whether it's sticking to designated trails, keeping dogs leashed, or properly storing food, small choices make a big difference. These aren't just rules; they’re acts of respect for the land and its original inhabitants.

As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors with my adventure cat Joy 🐾, I know firsthand how enriching and healing nature can be. But I also know how quickly things can go wrong when we aren’t prepared or mindful. That’s why education is so important — and why I’m committed to continuing this work, especially with newcomers who may be unfamiliar with wildlife practices in Canada.

I hope to see many of you out on the trails or at local events. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever want to learn more about the Wildlife Ambassador program or how we can all recreate more safely and responsibly. You can find more information about the Wildsmart program here.

Let’s continue to make the Bow Valley a place where wildlife and people thrive — together.

Canmore Clean-Up: A Personal Passion that Grew into a Community Movement

After taking a short break for personal reasons, I’m so happy to be organizing Canmore Clean-Up events again. It’s been almost a decade since I moved to Canmore from Azerbaijan, and one of the first things I noticed while exploring the stunning trails was the amount of garbage left behind. As someone who finds peace in nature and joy in outdoor activities like biking and hiking, I felt compelled to do something about it.

In April 2015, I created the Canmore Clean-Up Facebook Page—a small idea born from a simple goal: clean up our trails while enjoying the beauty of this mountain town. I hoped that others would feel the same way, and to my joy, I was right. Soon, friends and fellow community members began to join me on clean-up walks, turning what started as solo outings into a growing, supportive community initiative.

Over the years, we’ve organized more than 10 clean-up events across Canmore, ranging in size but always powered by a shared commitment to our environment. We’ve collected bags of trash from trails, parks, and public spaces—each effort helping to preserve the natural beauty we are so lucky to call home.

🌿 Why it matters:
Caring for nature starts with our behaviours. Disposing of waste properly not only keeps our town clean—it also shows respect for wildlife, protects fragile ecosystems, and builds a stronger sense of community. When we take care of our environment, we inspire others to do the same.

🌍 Looking ahead:
I’m excited to continue organizing these clean-up events and spreading the joy of giving back to nature. Whether you're a long-time local or a newcomer like I once was, you are welcome to join. Every hand helps, and every action counts.

📍 Want to get involved?
Follow my Canmore Clean-Up Facebook Page for upcoming events, photos, and ways to connect. Let’s work together to keep our trails clean, our wildlife safe, and our community proud.

📸 Here are some photos from our previous clean-up events – thank you to all the amazing volunteers who joined!

Inclusion and Economy. Why Inclusion Matters in Communities Like Canmore

Why inclusion?

Inclusion is essential in every part of life—especially in a community like Canmore. It shapes how we live, how we work, and how we grow together. It’s not just a social value; inclusion is a powerful economic and community-building tool. And it's one of the key reasons I'm running for Town Council.

Inclusion fuels economic growth

When we talk about inclusion, it’s not just about kindness or fairness it’s also about smart economics. Research shows that diverse teams and inclusive workplaces drive innovation and productivity. In small towns like Canmore, inclusive economic development means:

• Attracting and retaining workers by addressing barriers like housing and transportation.

• Supporting local businesses started by immigrants, women, and underrepresented groups.

• Building a resilient economy that can adapt because it draws from a wider base of skills, experiences, and ideas.

According to Statistics Canada, immigrants make up nearly 30% of Canmore’s population. That means inclusion isn’t a side issue it’s central to the future of our town. If those voices aren’t represented at the decision-making table, we’re missing a huge part of the picture.

The challenges we face

Despite progress, inclusion in Canmore still faces real challenges:

• Lack of affordable housing puts pressure on working families and newcomers.

• Limited transportation options make it hard for people without a vehicle to access jobs or participate in community life.

• Underrepresentation of diverse voices in leadership roles means decisions often don’t reflect the full diversity of our population.

These challenges are complex, but they’re not impossible to address—especially if we’re willing to listen, collaborate, and lead with empathy.

Why inclusion matters to me

As someone who is a visible minority and has worked closely with diverse community members, I’ve seen how much value different perspectives bring to the table. Inclusion matters to me because I know firsthand that policies are stronger, fairer, and more effective when they’re shaped by a range of voices.

Inclusion means recognizing that people experience this town in different ways. For example, affordability affects newcomers and long-time residents differently. Access to services looks different depending on your language, background, or job schedule. That’s why we can’t settle for one-size-fits-all solutions. We need an approach that listens first, includes more people in decisions, and creates space for everyone to thrive.

What I’ll advocate for if elected

If elected to Town Council, I’ll work to make inclusion a priority in every policy and decision. That means:

• Listening to underrepresented voices, especially those who are often left out of traditional consultations.

• Pushing for more inclusive public engagement, including translated materials, child-friendly meeting formats, and accessible locations.

• Supporting initiatives that reduce barriers to participation whether it’s access to affordable housing, sustainable transportation, or local programs.

• Collaborating with community groups to co-create solutions, not just consult after decisions are already made.

Most of all, I’ll keep showing up. Inclusion isn’t a checkbox it’s an ongoing commitment to making sure everyone feels heard, respected, and valued.

If you believe in a more inclusive, fair, and connected Canmore, I’d love your support. Let’s build a town where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. I’m always open to ideas, stories, and collaboration because real change happens when we work together.

Let’s make it happen, together. Reach out, follow along, and join the conversation. I’m looking forward to hearing from you and to seeing what we can accomplish as a community.